Let’s use financial security as an example. It is common practice to save money to prepare for possible risks. Does this actually give us the feeling of security that we desire? Often it does not. As our financial means grow so do our risks, leaving us in the same place as we were when we started… stressed and insecure.
Another great example is happiness. A common trick of the mind is to tell ourselves that we will be happy once we get that raise, buy a larger house, or finally get married. We believe these external modifiers will grant us happiness; however, it is our internal perspective that determines our level of happiness.
Instead of searching outside, try looking inside to create change. I am not advocating forsaking your material life (although that is a path many have chosen) but rather looking to the true source of these feelings.
Want to be happier? Try practicing gratitude. Looking for peace? Try acceptance meditation. Need more excitement in life? Cultivate it internally.
All of these feeling states are accessible to us all the time, in any situation. None of them rely on a fixed external scenario. Empowering ourselves with this knowledge allows us to stop searching externally for what we can only find inside.
Change Your Mind, Change Your Life Series: Mastering The Mind
Change Your Mind, Change Your Life Series: Brain/Body Basics
